Tours Excursions IV Region of Coquimbo

Visit to the Cerro Tololo Observatory

The Cerro Tololo Interamerican Observatory (CTIO) is a complex of telescopes and astronomic instruments located in the Elqui Valley at an altitude of 2.200 above sea level. It is operated by AURA, the Association of Universities for the Research in Astronomy, in cooperation with Universidad de Chile and under the auspices of the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Mamalluca Observatory Tour

The Mamalluca observatory is the first and greatest touristic observatory of Chile. It is located close to the city of Vicuña and offers an astronomic program designed for the general public. The program consists of an introductory talk, observation with a medium sized and the larger, principal telescope from the dome of the observatory. In total, the tour lasts 4 hours and includes round trip transfers.

Astronomical Adventure

In Pisco Elqui at sunset, we start to walk the path that lead us to a remote place above the village, full of wild in a beautiful natural scenario free of light pollution. We will settle to observe objects and get deep into the cosmos, then we will have the astronomical chat from our guide.

Astro Experience for Delegations or Groups

This program is a personalized service for groups. We offer a unique journey to the southern hemisphere’s sky in the Elqui Valley, a region known world-wide for having clear nights all year round.

According to your personal preferences, transport can be arranged by foot, horse or van. At the observation site, we await your group with a magical dinner under the open sky and then continue with the guided stargazing program, including an observation with a professional 12-inch telescope.

Astronomic Horseback Ride

The ideal tour to combine your journey to the stars with some adventure in between.

Once the sun sets, we leave by horse to ride up to the observation site following a single trail. The excursion is also suitable for people with no experience in horseback riding, as we will give you all the necessary instructions in the beginning. Also, our horses are tame ones.

At the observation site, next to a campfire and accompanied by pisco sour, our professional guide will explain the most important celestial phenomena and constellations to you. After, you will have the chance to explore the cosmos yourself with a 12-inch telescope.

Collowara Observatory Tour - Andacollo

The Collowara Observatory is located at 1300 meters above sea level on top of the hill the Churque, in an area recognized by the global astronomical community, for having the best skies for observation of space.

Today it is run by a group of entrepreneurs belonging to the Red de Hospedaje Andacollo. Consisting of sales, cafeteria, elevator for the disabled, auditorium, 3 terraces of direct observation, main dome and toilets.

The completion of this complex had a team of experts in astronomical terms and devised a complex that has a modern infrastructure, observation equipment and a beautiful architectural line.